Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Extract

What is Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Extract?

Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Extract comes from the Prunus serotina tree, a native North American species known as black cherry or wild cherry. Typically sourced from the bark, this botanical extract contains natural polyphenols, tannins, and volatile compounds. In cosmetic formulations, it serves primarily in the fragrance and skin care categories. It functions by releasing subtle cherry-like aromas to enhance product scent profiles, neutralizing off-odors through its masking abilities, and delivering mild humectant and emollient effects that help maintain skin's moisture balance and suppleness. The extract integrates well into creams, lotions, and serums, contributing to sensory appeal without heavy processing.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient

Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).

Masking

Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Moisturising

Improves skin hydration and comfort by combining water-binding (humectant) and barrier-supporting (emollient/occlusive) mechanisms to reduce dryness.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Enhances product fragrance with a natural cherry note.

Helps mask undesirable odors for a pleasant sensory experience.

Supports skin hydration and smoothness through conditioning action.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking natural fragrance alternatives in skincare.	People with known allergies to cherries or Rosaceae family plants.
People with normal to dry skin looking for mild moisturizing support.	Individuals sensitive to natural fragrances or plant extracts.
Those preferring botanical ingredients for masking purposes.	Those with highly reactive skin prone to contact dermatitis.

Safety Notes

Rated low hazard by independent safety assessments.
Patch testing recommended for new users of botanical extracts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Extract

What is Prunus Serotina Extract derived from?

It is extracted from the bark of the wild cherry tree (Prunus serotina), native to North America.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Yes, it carries a low safety rating and is suitable for most in cosmetic concentrations.

Does it clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore blockage.